WITH some of the most important games in it's history coming up in May, Barry Athletic Football Club have almost completed their 73rd season and it has been another very successful year for the club.

Off the pitch the current committee continue to work tirelessly to provide opportunities for the local footballing community.

A new central heating system has finally been installed in the clubhouse after going for over a decade with no heating, the toilets have been refurbished and the kitchen is currently being re-located to provide refreshments to players and spectators.

Thousands of pounds have been raised via external funding bids and internal fundraisers.

Funding has also been secured for new flooring via VOGC Strong Communities Fund and plans are gathering pace to renovate and modernise the changing rooms next winter.

The club were thrilled to progress form Standard to Bronze Accreditation status via the Football Association of Wales.

A fitting tribute to the development and growth seen at the Athletic over the past 5 years.

On the pitch the Athletic fielded teams for 2018/19 in every mini age group (ages 6- 11), two junior under 12 teams, an under 18 youth team and two men's teams.

With over 200 players now registered, an infrastructure is being built to ensure the club has a sustainable future.

It's men's "A" team have won the VOGAFL Premier league title for the 15th time.

The trophy was secured with a 3-1 victory over Island Marine and the club were presented with the winners shield by match referee, Mark Harvey.

With back to back titles in the trophy cabinet the club feel they are ready for a new challenge and have applied for promotion to the South Wales Alliance League.

They will play other league winners from across South Wales to decide which three teams get promoted. Each game will be like a cup final and the support of local people would be very much appreciated.

Clubs included in the play off matches along with Barry Athletic are: Canton Rangers, Ynysybwl, Tata Steel, Penygraig, Fairwater, Maesteg Park and Navi Treharris.

Matches will be played from May 13th - 25th but exact dates, venues and times are not known at time of writing. Follow the club's social media accounts for details as they are announced.

The club President, Adrian Heathfield, and his wife Deanna will be running the London Marathon on Sunday 28th April for two very good causes. The Shaw Trust and The Brian Heathfield Memorial Fund will benefit. Barry Athletic F.C. wish them both the very best of luck!! If you would like to sponsor them then please visit https://mydonate.bt.com/fundraisers/adeanddee2019

The committee would like to thank every sponsor, player, coach and parent from all it's age groups for their continued support and commitment.

If anyone would like to contact the club about any sponsor, coaching or playing opportunities please email Ady Gratton at chairman@barryathleticfc.uk